Advice that I was given when younger is that when generically quoting the Bible in English, one should always use KJV or NKJV since they're the most widely-known English translations. As it was explained to me, KJV is culturally-accepted as "the Bible" among English-speakers, even by those who don't recognize its authority.

This is advice I've taken to heart; I'm Roman Catholic, but I generally quote KJV, unless I'm specifically speaking with or writing for a Catholic audience. Reasons include:

It's (usually) recognizable to English speakers.
For many English-speaking Christians (especially in the United States), this is the only English translation of the Bible that they will recognize as having any authority.
Frequently, English-speaking non-Christians will also have a passing familiarity with its text.

To see why, look at the same, commonly-known verse (John 3:16) from several different translations:

KJV:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

NKJV:

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

NIV:

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

RSV:

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Douay Rhiems (Catholic)

For God so loved the world, as to give his only begotten Son; that whosoever believeth in him, may not perish, but may have life everlasting.

New American Bible (Catholic)

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.

When looking at the verse, the most familiar translation is likely KJV or NKJV (again, I'm Roman Catholic, and it is for me, as well). This will reach the largest audience.

---

(0)

Login to post a comment!